תִּרְגַּם

Core Meaning & Semantic Range

The Hebrew word tirgam, represented by H8638, means to transfer, i.e. translate; interpret. It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible. Its definition suggests the action of carrying a message or text from one form to another, specifically in the context of translation.

Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis

The single use of H8638 is found in a historical account describing official correspondence with a Persian king. In Ezra 4:7, a letter is sent to King Artaxerxes of Persia. The text specifies that "the writing of the letter was written in the Syrian tongue, and interpreted in the Syrian tongue." This usage points to the formal process of translation required to ensure a message was understood in a cross-cultural, administrative setting.

Related Words & Concepts

Several words in the surrounding text clarify the context of translation:

• H3789 kâthab (to write): This primitive root for writing is used twice in the verse, describing the physical creation of the document that was then interpreted Ezra 4:7.
• H5406 nishtᵉvân (an epistle; letter): This word, identified as being of Persian origin, specifies the type of official document that was written and translated Ezra 4:7.
• H762 ʼĂrâmîyth (in the Syrian tongue): This adverb specifies the language used for both the writing and the interpretation, highlighting the need for linguistic mediation in official communications Ezra 4:7.

Theological Significance

While H8638 appears in an administrative context, its use carries significance by underscoring the role of clear communication in the events surrounding God's people.

• Official Correspondence: The act of formally writing and then interpreting a letter to King Artaxerxes shows the intersection of human governance and the historical narrative. Opponents of the Jews used these official, translated channels in their attempt to stop the work in Jerusalem Ezra 4:7.
• Linguistic Mediation: The need for interpretation demonstrates the reality of the linguistic barriers faced by the people of Judah under Persian rule. Communication with the empire required careful translation to be effective.
• A Recorded Event: The biblical record notes the specific detail that the letter was interpreted, emphasizing the importance of accurately preserving the events that shaped the history of Israel.

Summary

In summary, H8638 is a highly specific term for interpretation or translation. Its sole appearance is tied to a formal letter sent to King Artaxerxes. Though not a frequently used theological word, its context demonstrates the role that precise communication and cross-cultural interaction played within the biblical narrative during the Persian period.